john boehner seems to care more about keeping his speakership. than about keeping the nation on firm financial footing. >> reporter: the republican leader responded saying it's democrats who failed to lead. >> make no mistake, the only reason the democrats have been trying to deflect attention onto me and my colleagues over the past few weeks, is that they don't have a plan of their own. >> reporter: president obama returned to washington for a last-minute push before leaving vacation in hawaii, he had separate phone conversations with congressional leaders. but it's not clear the talks helped. house republican leaders say they'll take action on whatever bill the senate can pass. but the senate must act first. brandi and muhammad? >> thank you. oh, to be a fly on the wall today in that meeting when it all happens. >> we've been talking all week about this going down to the deadline. i mean, we are right at that deadline. this is going to be a photo finish. i mean, if this was a race -- >> and if the house ends up adjourning, it usually takes 48 h